The Maneki-neko, or "beckoning cat", is a widely recognizable figure, beloved in Japan as a lucky cat that beckons good fortune. Most people in Japan use similar gestures to beckon someone over, by waving their hands up and down with their palms facing down.There are various theories about the origin of the Maneki-neko and, even today, no one is certain as to which explanation is the correct one. The Maneki-neko is believed to have originated towards the end of the Edo Period (1603-1867) and eventually developed into the decorative ornament it is today.visit homepage